#AskDrChrista
When I was a medical student one of the older midwives taught me to swaddle babies, which is basically wrapping your baby up to look like a papoose. The idea behind this age old practice is that it simulates the womb, makes them feel safe and secure… and maybe even sleep better. Over the years I have swaddled my own daughter and taught many parents to also swaddle their babies. As a woman of science I know that practices, knowledge and beliefs change and decided to take a closer look at the pros and cons of swaddling.
Why swaddle?
• If one considers the growing trend of looking at the first 3 months of outside life as the fourth trimester, it makes sense to assume that your baby might enjoy feeling snug and secure when swaddled, as they did in the womb.
• Babies can potentially sleep better and longer as they are not woken up by their own startling(Moro) reflexes. their arms and legs are contained within the swaddle and therefore they don’t startle at the faintest little noise or movement.
• Swaddling could possible calm fussy and colicky babies. Some anecdotal reports claim that babies settle easier and sleep better. There is unfortunately little to no research that supports this view.
• It can help ensures baby stays sleeping on their backs as recommended to prevent SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) or cot death.
• It may help calm and contain babies going through withdrawal syndromes following maternal drug use during pregnancy.
Reasons not too swaddle.
• It is potentially unsafe if baby is not swaddled correctly. The head and neck should be free, only swaddle the body.
• There is a risk of overheating (another risk factor for SIDS) if the blanket used is too thick, or if they are wrapped in too many layers.
• If not swaddled correctly the blanket can come loose and this may be dangerous and a suffocation and strangulation risk.
• Don’t swaddle while breastfeeding as they can get hot quickly and overheat whilst breastfeeding. It’s also good for the hands to be open to explore and feel moms skin. It’s also easier to get a comfortable good latch if baby is not swaddled.
• Some research have found that swaddled babies feed less frequently and less effective.
• If the swaddle is too tight it might inhibit leg and especially hip development and cause hip dysplasia ( a condition where the hip joint is shallow and can dislocate easier). This risk can be overcome by not swaddling too tightly and leaving room for the legs to straighten and bend with ease. A newborn baby’s legs should have room to fall into the natural froggy style (rotated outwards).
• Never position a swaddled baby to sleep on their tummies or even sides. Back lying is the recommended position to prevent SIDS.
• Although swaddling can prevent a baby from turning from their back to a face-down position, it is advised to stop swaddling your baby as soon as they show any signs of wanting or attempting to roll. This happens between 3 and 4 months of age. Head lifting and turning is important in a tummy lying position to prevent suffocation and this reflex action is inhibited in the swaddled baby.
Is swaddling safe?
If the guidelines for safe sleeping and healthy hips are followed… then absolutely yes!
Safe swaddling tips.
• Use thin, breathable fabrics. Stretchy cotton or soft cotton muslin swaddles are the best. Don’t put too many layers over that.
• Make sure whatever you use to swaddle can not come undone.
• Do not let the swaddle extend above their shoulders. Head and Neck should be open.
• Wrap your baby firmly but gently ( not tightly). Your baby should still be able to move his or her hips and legs must be able to move and kick. For a younger baby the legs should be able to fall into the natural froggy style legs.
• Check their temperature and dress appropriately for the weather. No thick fleecy jumpsuits in the middle of summer.
• Always put your swaddled baby on their backs to sleep. Tummy is only for play, never to sleep.
Remember that some babies hate to be swaddled. If your baby is one of them its also ok not to swaddle. If you have questions regarding swaddling or other newborn niggles please come and Ask Dr Christa anytime.
Sending hugs
XOXO Dr Christa